Month: April 2026

The death toll increased to 23 in a fatal accident at a firecracker manufacturing unit in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, officials confirmed on Sunday.

Speaking to ANI, District Collector NO Sukhaputra said that a second blast during rescue operations injured 13 personnel, adding that of the 23 dead, 19 bodies have been identified, 16 women and 3 men. Six injured victims remain in the ICU.

District Collector of Virudhunagar said, “There have been 23 deaths so far in that incident. Of the 23 deaths, 19 bodies have been identified; 16 of them are women, and 3 are men. Six injured are in the ICU.”

“While we were carrying out the rescue operation, a second blast occurred,” Sukhaputra said. “As a result, approximately 13 people, including the police, our fire and rescue team, revenue team, and volunteers who were involved in the rescue work, are hospitalised.”

He added that none of the 13 injured rescuers had sustained serious injuries and that medical teams were treating them.

The district administration said a senior IAS officer has been appointed to assist with rescue and relief operations. An FIR has been filed, and an investigation is underway.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi extended his condolences to the families affected by the sudden blast.

On X, he wrote, “The mishap in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu is deeply distressing. I extend my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his condolences and prayed for the recovery of all the injured individuals.

“Deeply saddened by the tragic fire accident at Virudhunagar in Tamil Nadu. My heartfelt condolences to the families of those deceased and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured,” said the Home Minister.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his condolences on X post and said that, “I have requested the Ministers K K S S R Ramachandran and Thangam Thennarasu to rush to the scene immediately to expedite and monitor the rescue operations and to offer solace to the affected families. Upon learning of this, I contacted the District Collector and instructed them to coordinate all necessary assistance”.

So far, 23 killed in a massive blast, out of which 19 bodies have been identified.

Senior police officials said that at around 3 pm on Sunday, a firework unit near Kattanarpatti reportedly blasted.

On receiving information from the public, police, fire and rescue personnel rushed to the spot and started dousing the fire.

Further, rescue efforts are underway. Rescued individuals were shifted to a nearby government hospital. (ANI)

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan visited the sets of Varun Dhawan starrer ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’ during a dance song shoot. He also complimented the dance skills of the actor.

Taking to his Instagram handle, Varun Dhawan shared behind-the-scenes footage from the dance rehearsal of the song ‘Vyaah Karwado Ji’ from his upcoming film, which is directed by his father, David Dhawan.

In the clip, Salman Khan was seen asking Varun to watch him take his shot. After performing the hook step, Varun walked up to Salman for feedback. In a playful moment, Salman playfully roasted him, saying, “Was that a rehearsal or the actual shot?”, leaving Varun and David Dhawan in splits.

“Was it the rehearsal or the take?” said Salman Khan in the video.

While sharing the video, Varun wrote, “Always nervous to dance next to India’s biggest kunwara.”

‘Vyah Karwado Ji’ is the first track from Varun’s upcoming film ‘Hai Jawani to Ishq Hona Hai’, which was released on Friday. The song featured Varun and Mrunal Thakur in a colourful and festive setup.

Packed with wedding vibes, dance, and celebration, the track brings full-on fun energy. Varun is seen in his stylish avatar, while Mrunal matches the mood with ease.

The song has been sung by Mika Singh and Asees Kaur. Its lyrics are written by Vayu, while the music is by White Noise Collectives. With its peppy beats and celebratory mood, the track could become a popular wedding number this season.

The film stars Varun Dhawan with Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur. It marks Varun’s return to the rom-com genre after his patriotic role in Border 2. (ANI)

Ananya Panday extended a heartfelt birthday wish for her ‘Chand Mera Dil’ co-actor Lakshya on Sunday. She shared behind-the-scenes footage from the film.

Taking to her Instagram handle, Ananya Panday shared a series of black and white photos from the sets of the upcoming film ‘Chand Mera Dil’. The photos depicted the chemistry between both actors, making the birthday wish truly special.

“Happy Birthday, Lakshya! The Aarav to this Chandni…Watching your journey was one thing…but sharing the screen with you now feels like seeing that same find its full moment. Stay exactly who you are… because that’s your real khaasiyat (speciality),” wrote Ananya Panday.

The makers of ‘Chand Mera Dil’ shared the teaser of the film, offering a glimpse at an intense love story with a darker turn.

Backed by Dharma Productions, the film is directed by Vivek Soni. The teaser of the film opens with the love-filled moments between Lakshya and Ananya. They were seen spending quality time with each other.

With the tagline “Pyaar mein thoda paagal hona hi padta hai,” the film hints at a love that’s deep, raw, and unapologetically intense.

The love story soon hints at the emotional breakdown, signalling that love isn’t enough to carry them through the entire relationship, as the romance grows heavier and more complicated over time.

‘Chand Mera Dil’ is set to release in theatres on May 22. (ANI)

Darshan Kumar, the younger brother of T-series founder Gulshan Kumar, has passed away.

The news was confirmed in a statement shared on the official Instagram page of T-series Films.

“A major loss for our family, the passing of Shri Darshan Kumar ji leaves a space that cannot be filled. The younger brother of our founder Shri Gulshan Kumar ji, he was a strength behind T-Series, someone who stood by the journey with unwavering presence over the years. He played an important role in supporting and strengthening the foundation of the company. Today, we remember him not just for what he did, but for who he was, and the place he held within the T-Series family,” the statement read.

Condolences instantly poured in the comment section, with many paying tributes.

Members of the music fraternity also condoled Darshan Kumar’s passing and wrote, “Just heard the heartbreaking news that Darshan Kumar ji, the owner of T-Series, has left us with his beautiful memories. He was truly a great man and always so helpful. He launched and supported so many singers and gave opportunities to countless talents. May Mata Rani bless his soul and give him eternal peace.Rest in peace. Om Shanti.” (ANI)

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan has been receiving warm wishes and heartfelt messages from across the industry as he continues to recover after his surgery.

According to a statement by Pawan Kalyan’s Political Secretary, P Hariprasad, the Deputy CM underwent surgery on Saturday evening after health-related issues for the past few months.

Wishing for his quick recovery, actors like Allu Arjun, Ram Charan, Jr NTR, among others, shared their wishes.

Ram Charan shared a heartwarming message for his uncle and wrote, “Wishing Hon’ble Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, @PawanKalyan Garu, a smooth and speedy recovery. Looking forward to seeing you back in action, stronger than ever.”

Wishing Hon’ble Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, @PawanKalyan Garu, a smooth and speedy recovery.

Looking forward to seeing you back in action, stronger than ever.

— Ram Charan (@AlwaysRamCharan) April 19, 2026

‘Pushpa’ star Allu Arjun also prayed for Pawan Kalyan’s well-being and added, “Wishing Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, @PawanKalyan garu a smooth recovery and continued good health. May you be back in full strength soon.”

Wishing Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, @PawanKalyan garu a smooth recovery and continued good health. May you be back in full strength soon.

— Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) April 19, 2026

Jr NTR, in an X post, wished Pawan Kalyan to return to public service in good health.

“Wishing Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, Sri @PawanKalyan garu a speedy recovery. May you return to public service soon with renewed strength and good health,” he wrote.

Wishing Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, Sri @PawanKalyan garu a speedy recovery. May you return to public service soon with renewed strength and good health.

— Jr NTR (@tarak9999) April 19, 2026

Joining the line of greetings, Sai Dharam Tej wrote on X, “My dear Chinna Mama @PawanKalyan Get Well Soon… Along with people’s love& prayers, I send my deepest love for your speedy recovery. The surgery went very well, and I hope to see you serving the people again in no time… Take Care of your precious health.”

My dear Chinna Mama @PawanKalyan Get Well Soon.. ❤️

Along with people’s love& prayers, I send my deepest love for your speedy recovery. The surgery went very well, and I hope to see you serving the people again in no time… Take Care of your precious health

— Sai Dharam Tej (@IamSaiDharamTej) April 18, 2026

Earlier in the day, Chiranjeevi shared a health update about his brother, stating that the Deputy CM has been recovering well.

“Kalyan Babu has successfully undergone a medical procedure and is now safe, stable, and recovering well. As per the doctors, it may take about a week for him to return to his normal routine. There is no cause for concern. Thank you all for your love, concern, and prayers. Let us keep him in our thoughts and wish him strength, comfort, and a speedy recovery,” Chiranjeevi wrote.

Kalyan Babu has successfully undergone a medical procedure and is now safe, stable, and recovering well.

As per the doctors, it may take about a week for him to return to his normal routine. There is no cause for concern.

Thank you all for your love, concern, and prayers. Let…

— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) April 19, 2026

Notably, doctors have indicated that full recovery may take a long, however, he can resume his official duties after a 10-day rest. (ANI)

Actor Kajal Aggarwal is showering much love and warmth on her song, Neil, as the little one turns four.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Kajal shared a carousel of pictures and videos from Neil’s themed birthday party, joined by friends and family members.

In her caption, the actor wrote, “Happiest 4th birthday, my darling sunshine Neil. May your love for adventure, space, planets, and this beautiful universe always shine bright. May your curiosity and magical imagination never fade. May you always feel the blessings of Lord Ram and Krishna, and continue to joyfully lose yourself in their beautiful stories. May you always remain their most favourite child. We love you more than all the stars in the sky.”

She also added a playful note for her son and continued, “You truly do justice to your name, my little astronaut. Reaching for the stars already and stealing our hearts along the way.”

Fans quickly rushed to the comment section and showered love for Neil, sending warm wishes.

Kajal Aggarwal shares her son, Neil, with husband Gautam Kitchlu.

Kajal and Gautam got married in Mumbai in October 2020 and welcomed their baby on April 19, 2022.

Announcing the birth of their baby, Gautam shared a post on his Instagram handle and captioned it as, “Our hearts are full and we are full of gratitude. Thank you, everyone, for your love and blessings”. (ANI)

Bollywood couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh on Sunday announced that they are expecting their second child, sharing the heartwarming news with fans through a social media post that quickly went viral.

The couple made the announcement on Instagram with an adorable picture. In the image shared by the couple, their first-born daughter, Dua Padukone Singh, can be seen holding a pregnancy test kit, adding an emotional and joyful touch that delighted fans.

In the caption, the couple kept it simple and added only evil eye emojis.

Soon after the announcement, celebrities and fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages and warm wishes. Several members of the film industry reacted to the post, expressing happiness for the couple as they prepare to welcome their second child.

Actors including Parineeti Chopra and Samantha Ruth Prabhu were among the first to respond, extending their love and best wishes. Fans also flooded social media with emotional responses, with many expressing joy over the news and calling it a “healing moment.”

Parineeti Chopra wrote, “Congratssssssss, while Ananya Panday mentioned, “Omggggg.. bigggggest love”

Kiara Advani, Armaan Malik, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Bhumi Pednekar were among several others who also congratulated the star couple.

Deepika and Ranveer welcomed their first child, Dua, on September 8, 2024. The couple tied the knot on November 14, 2018, at Lake Como in Italy after dating for six years.

The duo first met on the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s romantic drama ‘Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela’ and later starred together in films such as ‘Bajirao Mastani’ and ‘Padmaavat’, becoming one of Bollywood’s most celebrated on-screen and off-screen couple. (ANI)

Actor Shivaleeka Oberoi and filmmaker Abhishek Pathak have welcomed their first child, a baby girl, the couple announced on Sunday through a heartfelt social media post.

Sharing the joyful news on Instagram, the couple described their newborn as “our little Goddess Laxmi” and called her arrival “a blessing in its purest form.”

Shivaleeka Oberoi shared the announcement with a caption that read, “Our little Goddess Laxmi has arrived on an auspicious day. A blessing in its purest form.”

The announcement also included a note that said, “In a moment, our hearts found a whole new meaning! With immense love and gratitude, we welcome our precious. Baby Girl! 19th April 2026. Blessed parents Shivaleeka & Abhishek.”

In December 2025, the couple announced the pregnancy news amid the Christmas festivities. “Our love story has found its sweetest verse — a tiny blessing is joining our universe,” they wrote on social media.

Shivaleeka Oberoi and Abhishek Pathak tied the knot on February 9, 2023, in Goa after dating for several years. Their wedding reception was attended by several film personalities, including the cast of Pyaar Ka Punchnama, including Kartik Aaryan, Sunny Singh, Nushrratt Bharuccha and Ishita Raj Sharma, while actor Ajay Devgn also attended the celebration.

They had a dreamy proposal in Turkey, where Abhishek Pathak popped the question to Shivaleeka Oberoi under the hot air balloons. The grand proposal video also did the rounds on social media.

On the work front, Shivaleeka is known for ‘Yeh Saali Aashiqui’ and ‘Khuda Haafiz’. Abhishek has directed films such as ‘Drishyam 2’ and ‘Ujda Chaman’. He has also produced films such as ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama’, ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2’, ‘Section 375’ and ‘Khuda Haafiz’. (ANI)

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday announced the opening of the gates of Gangotri Dham and Yamunotri Dham for devotees on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, marking the formal commencement of the Char Dham Yatra 2026.

In a post on X, the Chief Minister said the portals of both shrines were opened with full religious rituals and traditions, signalling the beginning of this year’s Char Dham pilgrimage.

“Today, on the sacred occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, the gates of Shri Gangotri and Shri Yamunotri Dham will be opened for devotees with full rites and rituals. With this, the Char Dham Yatra – 2026 is also being inaugurated,” Dhami posted.

Dhami said the state government has made comprehensive arrangements to ensure that the yatra remains safe and well-organised.

“Our government has ensured comprehensive and robust preparations to make the Char Dham Yatra safe, well-organised, and devotee-friendly,” he said.

He also extended prayers on the auspicious occasion, expressing hope for the well-being of devotees.

“I pray to Mother Ganga and Mother Yamuna that they fill all your lives with happiness, prosperity and progress,” the Chief Minister added.

Earlier, the sacred palanquin (doli) of Goddess Yamuna departed from Kharsali for Yamunotri Dham on Sunday morning as the Char Dham Yatra began today.

The palanquin of Goddess Ganga also departed from the ancient Bhairav Temple in Bhairavghati for Gangotri Dham.

The Char Dham Yatra to Kedarnath Dham, Gangotri Dham, Yamunotri Dham, and Badrinath Dham will begin today.

The portals of Kedarnath Dham, regarded as a sacred symbol of faith and devotion, will be opened for pilgrims for the 2026 Yatra on April 22 at 8:00 am.

Meanwhile, the ceremonial idol (Utsav Doli) of Lord Kedarnath will depart from its winter seat at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, following grand and traditional rituals. The temple premises have been beautifully decorated with flowers, and a large number of devotees have already started gathering.

According to the scheduled programme, on April 19, the Utsav Doli of Lord Kedarnath will leave Ukhimath and reach Phata. On April 20, it will proceed from Phata to Gaurikund, where it will halt for the night at the sacred Gaurimai Temple.

In the next phase of the journey, on April 21, the Doli will depart from Gaurikund in the morning and reach the temple treasury (Bhandar) at Kedarnath Dham. Religious rituals at the shrine will formally commence thereafter, culminating in the opening of the temple doors to devotees on April 22 at 8:00 am. (ANI)

Deendayal Port Authority has facilitated the dispatch of cryogenic LNG tanks by INOX India Limited for a mini-LNG terminal project in The Bahamas, the port authority said on Sunday.

“Kandla Port is proud to be the gateway for yet another global milestone. The dispatch of LNG tanks by INOXCVA for the mini-LNG Terminal project at The Bahamas underscores our commitment to facilitating complex, high-value cargo,” the port authority said in a post on X.

It added that the development reflects its role in “powering India’s rise in global energy infrastructure,” and extended “best wishes to INOX India Limited and all stakeholders for this remarkable achievement.”

Confirming the development, INOX India Limited said the shipment marks progress in its overseas LNG project.

“Grateful to Deendayal Port Authority for enabling the dispatch of our first batch of 1500 m³ tanks–a proud step towards our landmark LNG terminal project in the Bahamas,” the company said in a separate post.

The company further said it remains “committed to driving the energy transition with innovative cryogenic engineering.”

Earlier, on April 16, the company had termed the dispatch a key milestone for the project.

“Proud to achieve a major milestone in our landmark Bahamas LNG project… as the first batch of 1500 m³ tanks is dispatched from Kandla port for the Mini LNG Terminal under development at Nassau, Bahamas,” the company said.

It added that the project “represents the largest installation of shop-built, double-walled vacuum insulated tanks globally,” and noted that it is supplying “10 high-capacity tanks along with a regasification system to support island-based power generation.”

The company also acknowledged its team, stating, “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the entire team whose dedication and precision made this milestone possible.” (ANI)